In a move to prioritise fitness ahead of the upcoming Test series against India, Australia has announced its 13-man squad for the T20I series against Pakistan, with several of the nation’s top Test players rested. Notably, the squad is currently without a confirmed captain, with previous T20I leaders Mitchell Marsh and Travis Head unavailable due to paternity leave, and ODI and Test captain Pat Cummins also opting out.
New Faces and Injuries Resolved: Australia vs Pakistan
Returning to the squad are pacers Xavier Bartlett, Nathan Ellis, and Spencer Johnson, all recently recovered from injuries sustained during Australia’s tour of the UK. Johnson, who has resumed domestic play with South Australia, will be joined by Bartlett and Ellis, both cleared for action after recovering from side strain and hamstring issues, respectively.
The inclusion of these players marks a significant boost for Australia’s bowling options as they enter the three-match series against Pakistan, scheduled from 14 to 18 November.
Potential Captaincy Contenders for Australia
With no designated captain yet, the squad has several potential candidates. Glenn Maxwell, Adam Zampa, Matthew Short, and Aaron Hardie have experience leading teams in the Big Bash League (BBL). Wicketkeeper Josh Inglis, who serves as vice-captain for Perth Scorchers, is also seen as a strong contender, given his tactical skills and leadership qualities.
Strategic line-up adjustments
The lineup, similar to the one that toured the UK in September, features Maxwell returning after a brief rest. Batsmen Matthew Short and Jake Fraser-McGurk are expected to lead the batting order, with Fraser-McGurk positioned as the likely opener alongside Short, after previously batting at No. 3.
The squad is designed to provide a competitive edge while giving main Test players time to recuperate ahead of India.
Coaching Staff to Rotate
For this T20I series, Australia will rotate its coaching staff. Assistant coach Andre Borovec will serve as head coach, following a similar role in last October’s T20I series against India. Former Australian batter Brad Hodge will join the team as an assistant, having previously supported Australia’s T20 World Cup squad as a consultant.
Veteran wicketkeeper Matthew Wade, who last captained Australia’s T20I side in February, is expected to join in a coaching capacity.
Squad Flexibility ahead of India Test Matches
Cricket Australia (CA) has indicated that any T20 squad members selected for the first Test will be available to join the Test squad after the T20I series concludes. This keeps players like Josh Inglis and Sean Abbott in consideration for a potential call-up to the Test squad ahead of the series against India. CA’s statement clarified, “Any members of the T20 squad selected for the first Test will join the rest of the group following the final match in Hobart.”
Australia T20I Squad vs Pakistan
The squad comprises Sean Abbott, Xavier Bartlett, Cooper Connolly, Tim David, Nathan Ellis, Jake Fraser-McGurk, Aaron Hardie, Josh Inglis, Spencer Johnson, Glenn Maxwell, Matthew Short, Marcus Stoinis, and Adam Zampa.
The upcoming T20I series will serve as both a strategic opportunity for Australia to strengthen its bench and a crucial warm-up before the intensity of the Test series against India.
